The Los Angeles Rams hope to rebound from a tough overtime loss to the San Francisco 49ers when they travel to Baltimore this Sunday. With the Ravens likely missing quarterback Lamar Jackson due to a hamstring injury, the matchup appears favorable for LA—but Baltimore’s defense is poised for a transformation with a new addition.
Gilman Adds Veteran Stability to Secondary
Baltimore recently acquired veteran safety Alohi Gilman from the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for outside linebacker Odafe Oweh. Gilman, who spent six years with the Chargers, is known for his football IQ and versatility in the secondary.
“You’re on a plane in three hours. Put a whole bunch of stuff in your bag, say goodbye, hit the road,” Gilman said of his trade. “It’s a little bittersweet, but I’ve come to a great organization. I’m super grateful for that. They wanted me to be here to help this team win.”
The 28-year-old brings 39 career starts and five interceptions, providing immediate experience to a Baltimore backfield that has struggled, ranking last in points allowed and near the bottom in passing and rushing defense. Gilman’s presence gives the Ravens a capable playmaker who can stabilize coverage and free up teammates to take more aggressive roles.
Impact on Kyle Hamilton
Gilman reunites with Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton, his former Notre Dame teammate. Hamilton has emerged as the defensive leader in Baltimore, but he’s often overextended due to the team’s secondary struggles.
With Gilman in the mix, Hamilton can play closer to his strengths—roaming the middle of the field, attacking passing lanes, and making plays in coverage—without being forced to compensate for weaknesses elsewhere. Gilman’s versatility allows the Ravens to mix man and zone schemes more effectively, potentially masking some of the team’s vulnerabilities.
“K-Ham, that’s my brother,” Gilman said. “I had to keep him in shape as a freshman. Now he’s an All-Pro. Having me there should give him support and allow him to make more plays without being overloaded.”
Quick Transition, Immediate Expectations
Despite joining the team midweek, Gilman is ready to contribute immediately. According to The Baltimore Sun, “Harbaugh expects Gilman to be available to play Sunday against the Rams.” Linebacker Kyle Van Noy is confident Gilman will be a leader from day one:
“A very good football player. I’m excited for him to come into our locker room and get to work. Hopefully, he’s up on Sunday because I think he’s going to be able to help us out.”
For the Rams, this new-look defense presents a different challenge than recent weeks. While Baltimore has surrendered the most points in the NFL, Gilman’s addition could tighten coverage, reduce exploitable gaps, and make Kyle Hamilton’s presence even more impactful. Sunday’s game may be the first glimpse at how this revamped secondary functions under live game conditions.
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